Not too many years ago racing had one less fan. She was a "sometimer," one of the many who watch the Derby, the Preakness, maybe the Belmont Stakes (all gr. I) if it appears a horse might duplicate the feat of Secretariat, Seattle Slew, and Affirmed. This casual observer loved the beauty and grace of the horse but knew nothing of stakes, furlongs, stud farms, or Bluegrass.

When I think back on that early May morning phone conversation five years ago, I am still surprised I got through so easily.